Texans' Tank Dell Developing Skills Beyond Pass-Catching
HOUSTON — Houston Texans' Tank Dell is quickly becoming a reliable wide receiver. The rookie prospect from the University of Houston has made plays each day at training camp. And during the Texans' two-day joint practices against the Miami Dolphins, Dell dominated the secondary with several catches and three touchdowns.
Dell has lived up to coach DeMeco Ryans' description as a "dynamic player." But according to veteran wideout Robert Woods, Dell has taken the initiative to improve his game beyond catching passes from Davis Mills and C.J. Stroud.
"I don’t think you guys are really seeing what he does in the run game as well," Woods said. "Always fronting up and being the guy who — making sure his defender doesn’t make the tackle. Which is really good for a receiver — a young receiver and a receiver of his size.
"Being able to be involved in the run game and not only be a pass receiver, I think that’s really good for our offense and for his career."
Dell's willingness to improve his run blocking isn't just a testament to his work ethic. But it displays how the 5-foot-9 wideout is adding to his arsenal to improve his versatility.
Dell recorded 65 yards on five catches and a touchdown during his Texans debut against the New England Patriots on Aug. 10.
The play of the night came on 1st and goal with 16 seconds left in the first half. With the ability to keep his body in bounds, Dell scored the Texans' first touchdown with a 24-yard completion from Mills.
"He's electric, and he's always open," Ryans said. "It was fun to see him in the run game – his intent when he was going to block safeties or corners – his intent. It's encouraging to see a young player step up and make plays."
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